The late Raymond Beattie was a Strangford Lough man through and through, an enthusiastic sailor and member of Killyleagh Yacht Club. He passed away in the Isle of Man on 1st June following a tragic accident.

In a fitting tribute and final farewell to Raymond, over one hundred boats gathered at Audley’s Roads near Strangford village last Monday evening and this huge flotilla, organised by Killyleagh Yacht Club, accompanied the motorboat Theseus carrying Raymond on his last journey up the Lough to Killyleagh. It was a spectacular and emotional tribute to a man greatly loved around Strangford Lough.

A huge flotilla helped to carry Raymond on his last journey up the Lough to Killyleagh

Raymond was a friend to all and a great competitor in his Sun Odyssey 37, Tiger Lily, racing on the Lough and farther afield.

Raymond's Sun Odyssey 37, Tiger Lily

Andrew Steenson of Strangford Sailing Club and Quoile Yacht Club expressed his own thoughts; “Overwhelmed by the turnout of over a hundred boats from every club in Strangford Lough to escort the remains of Raymond Beattie on his final journey up Strangford Lough. An amazing tribute to one of Strangford Lough’s true gentlemen. Raymond would be looking down on all on the water tonight with the smile that he will be remembered for. We have never seen a gathering of boats on Strangford Lough like we saw tonight, and we may never see one like that again. But seeing so many boats in one place at one time shows how much respect the sailing community of Strangford Lough has for Raymond and Killyleagh. Rest in peace Raymond”.

Raymond leaves his wife Kate and son Paul, daughter-in-law Ciara and grandchildren Dara and Luca. A service of Thanksgiving for his life will be held in Kilmore Presbyterian Church in Crossgar on Sunday 26th June at 2.30 pm.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers if desired to RNLI c/o Charles Rourke and Sons, Funeral Directors, 51 Church Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6EH. (please make cheques payable to Charles Rourke and Sons).